Nonam Tuesday October 26th, 1999 4:43:59 PM
Nonam watches Jus cast, "That spell won't last much longer than 10 minutes. Keep your mind on the time, so our buddy doesn't suddenly appear while we're crossing the street."
Gareth d20=11 Tuesday October 26th, 1999 6:37:59 PM
moves down the alley and thinks nothing of Jus's decision to remain visible (failed wisdom check). He waits in the shadows frustrated that the party cannot move on now - hoping they can do so soon.
Onrad d100=70 d100=63 Tuesday October 26th, 1999 8:58:59 PM
The procession passes by. As the Matron reaches Jus' position, she looks about with intelligent eyes nodding here and there. Suddenly her eyes meet Jus' eyes (70%). She uses a quick obvious hand sign and the whole group stops. She pivots on her sedan and says in clear but archaic common. "It is interesting to see a surface cousin visiting our fine city." She nods. "Are you here on business or pleasure?" Just about this time, Teko's mind clears (63%) and he finds himself in an alley with something interesting going on if he could only see. Further down the alley and around a corner, the rest of the party sees a door leaning off of it's hinges. Perhaps a place to get out of the alley. The others also pick this inopportune time to come to their senses.
Onrad d20=12 Tuesday October 26th, 1999 9:00:59 PM
Onrad shakes his head violently and gasps finding himself somewhat upside down. After a moment, he thinks he's figured things out (int. check of 12) and whispers, "Gareth, that you? I think I'm ok now. What happened?" Onrad continues to lay limp so as to not cause Gareth, or whoever is holding him any undue problems.
Gareth d20=6 Tuesday October 26th, 1999 10:03:59 PM
curses under his breath at Jus's stupidity (made Wisdom check after Matron saw him). He whispers to Onrad "Shh. It's me Gareth, Onrad. You and Kibo don't move. We need to see if Jus just got himself killed and compromised the mission or not."
Saire Tuesday October 26th, 1999 10:06:59 PM
Turning around the corner, Saire sees the broken door, but realizes that party members are scattered all up and down the alley. Saire decides to report back to the warrior (Gareth). As Saire peers around the corner he sees the mage looking fellow going the opposite direction, "Oh No...". Plus, he can't see hardly any of the party coming his direction. "OK Saire, now what do you do? Wait?" Saire looks up... then looks at his rope... hmmm." (What does Saire see?)Ends the round just at the corner of the alley's bend, waiting.
Jus d20=9 Wednesday October 27th, 1999 12:23:59 AM
Jus gives an appropriate look of pleasant surprise when the Matron stops and speaks to him. Remembering his court etiquette training (rolled proficiency), Jus executes an appropriate bow to the Matron. Letting one of his practiced innocent grins appear (using his natural charisma), he answers her, "In meeting you, it is definitely a pleasure visit. I thank you for this honor."
Nonam Wednesday October 27th, 1999 2:49:59 AM
Nonam whispers to Gareth, "Get everyone through that door hanging off its hinges. I'll wait with Jus. If this turns into a problem it's one for magic to solve." He keeps holding his staff with one hand but reaches into a pocket for the fire wand with the other.
Tericus Wednesday October 27th, 1999 3:01:59 AM
catches up with Gareth and Saire, and turns to Gareth. "Where is everyone? Do we need to go back, or should we wait here?"
Teko Wednesday October 27th, 1999 3:21:59 AM
Teko looks around, trying to glean whatever information his infravision will give him. After using a charge from his Ring of Invisibility, he moves down the alley, hoping to see one of his friends. He stays to the shadows as much as possible.
Kibo d20=11 d100=56 d20=17 Wednesday October 27th, 1999 3:37:59 AM
With a suppressed grunt, Kibo taps Gareth on the shoulder and indicates to let him down. He wills his ring to create a 10' radius sphere to block sound (speech is still possible within), and says, "All together, head for the door. Nonam, get away from Jus. Our presence only makes his more precarious." Kibo quickly blends into the shadows and checks for traps or ambushes within the doorway (he successfully made his rolls).
The Art of Conversation or is that Conversion? (DM Jerry) d100=78 Wednesday October 27th, 1999 5:25:59 AM
The matron makes a sly smile and says, "Such a clever young man. We must get together. Are you staying in town long? How about coming for tea and cakes on my veranda tomorrow morning? I simply won't say no for an answer. Here's my sign. Check into a nice inn and get yourself a bath and some nice clothes...and be careful. These ARE the Stenchstreets." She tosses what looks to be a real spider at Jus. She smiles. A practiced thing that seems to need more practice. Then she backs her face into the shadows of her cowl and the procession continues on it's way. Those stepping through the broken door see an abandoned room one door boarded shut leads somewhere else within the building. There is crusted vomit on the floor and blood of several species and colors. The place smells slightly of urine. Saire standing at the corner sees Jus speaking to someone he can't see.
Jus Wednesday October 27th, 1999 6:18:59 AM
Jus catches the spider with as much nonchalance as possible, slipping it into one of his Baladrana's pockets without a second glance. His eyes still cheery, Jus watches the procession move down the street. As the crowd begins to break up, he quietly mentions, just loud enough for the nearby spectators to hear, "Imagine that -- an invitation to tea..." Taking his eyes from the receding barge, Jus looks around to see who is glancing his way after his comment. To these people – or creatures, as the case may be – Jus casually asks, "Which Matron was that, anyway?" Looking again to the barge, he adds, "I don't suppose any of you know where her veranda is, do you?"
Kibo d100=11 Wednesday October 27th, 1999 3:57:59 PM
Cutting the function of the ring, Kibo goes over and listens to the boarded up door (successful) to make sure the group will not be quickly discovered. "I don't like it here, I don't like it here, I don't..." Kibo mutters under his breath while checking the area for defensive value -- the others notice a quick methodical appraisal honed by years of experience.
Nonam Wednesday October 27th, 1999 6:46:59 PM
Nonam grabs Jus when the procession passes and ushers him down to the doorway. He hisses in the elf's ear as he goes, "Be more careful."
Gareth d20=11 Wednesday October 27th, 1999 7:10:59 PM
(Int check made). After Kibo gets down and at Nonam's prompting, the warrior moves up to Saire's position and through the door where he sets down Onrad. "Looks like Jus got lucky. I am concerned that we may be followed by that Matron's people. I suggest we get out of here quickly.". He moves back out into the alley looking - and listening - for the others.
Saire Wednesday October 27th, 1999 9:53:59 PM
Saire approaches the broken door, and peers in. After seeing and smelling the foulness, he shakes his head, "This'll never do, when need a nice, cozy place to call home base. Yet I have no real suggestions." Saire will follow Gareth with the remainder of his movement when Gareth decides to move from this location.
Onrad Wednesday October 27th, 1999 9:54:59 PM
Onrad entering the "sanctuary" checks himself over and gives his supplies a once over to be sure that all is well. Then seeing Kibo case the joint, he says, "We've a lot to accomplish tonight and in some respects, we're not even started yet. We must begin conserving everything. Knowing when to use something and when not to may keep us all alive this night." He cocks an eye at Kibo to see if he detects anything beyond the door. "Kibo, how hard would it be to get through the door and close it back so that no one thinks we went that way. We need to lay a few false trails as well as get to our next meeting." It is evident that Onrad is quickly getting into high gear. "Saire, if you're gonna be with us for the duration, you need to know a few things....well a lot of things. Come I'll give you the 2 minute version. He takes Saire over to the side of the room and begins to whisper quickly and fervently to him. "First thing, we're not leaving yet. We've just arrived and we intend to do much hard and help to this place before we leave. You see it all started when...."
Tericus Thursday October 28th, 1999 2:26:59 AM
goes into the run down house, covering his nose with his hand. seeing everyone else either talking or doing preparations for the upcoming job, Tericus goes over by the door and stands guard. reaching into his backpack, he pulls out a stone and a potion, the stone he plucks into his mouth and begins to suck on, the potion held in his free hand, ready to use if needed.
Gareth Thursday October 28th, 1999 3:59:59 AM
remains invisible - not wanting to squander a charge. "Guys, I'm still here. I intend to stay invisible until we get to the meeting. That way I won't have to use another charge on my ring later. How do we get to this meeting place? Anybody know?"
Teko d20=3 Thursday October 28th, 1999 4:00:59 AM
As Teko steps out into the open, if he cannot see any of the party, he casts Detect Invisibility (makes Intelligence check to think to do so), hoping to catch them in range.
Tea for two with who? (DM Jerry) Thursday October 28th, 1999 7:17:59 AM
The crowd breathes a visible sigh of relief as the matron moves on down the street. Everyone especially moves away, far away and quickly from Jus. No one answers his question and his naive curiosity seems to exacerbate the situation. Nonam then grabs Jus and drags him down the street to the doorway. (Nonam please make a perception check.) Teko sees the party disappearing into the doorway.
Kibo Thursday October 28th, 1999 1:08:59 PM
Kibo replies to Onrad, "It shouldn't be much of a problem to make it look like the door was never opened. I'm pretty sure no one is currently behind it. What's got me concerned is why someone would want to board it up from this side, as if to keep something IN. I appreciate the false-trails suggestion, but I advise against using that door." Seeing Jus come in the doorway, Kibo says, "I think we need to get as far away from here as quickly as we can. Do we have any non-detection magic on us? I'm betting the Matron is keeping an eye on our friend Jus."
Nonam d20=15 Thursday October 28th, 1999 4:43:59 PM
[made perception check] Nonam makes sure that he doesn't touch anything in the filthy room, and he gives a quick, near silent lecture, "Look, no more running around half-cocked, or we're all going to get killed. Everyone, stay invisible or at least hidden... and in the future, anytime we leave the World Serpent Inn, we should already be invisible. Since we can't see, we should have a system of keeping track of each other. I suggest a sort of an expanded buddy system. Kibo will be out front, directing me through the ring. I'll relay to Gareth. And so on down the line. This way we only have to keep up with two others rather than the whole party. Jus and Onrad should probably get the rear and everyone else in between."
Gareth d20=1 Thursday October 28th, 1999 6:35:59 PM
signals everyone to be quiet until he realizes he's invisible. He gently grabs Jus by the shoulder and whispers "Elf, come outside with me quickly. The rest of you wait here.". Once there the warrior offers "Stay here for a moment. I'll be back in a minute". With that he goes back into the room and whispers quietly. Is it possible that spider she tossed him is a tracking device? Should we plant it on somebody else as we walk by them? I would think that would be better than just dropping it. Nonam, what do you think? You're the magic man." (made Int with a 1!)
Onrad Thursday October 28th, 1999 8:16:59 PM
Onrad finishes his explanation of things to Saire. "So Saire, are you with us or not? If not, you'll have to wait for us here to return to the surface with us." Onrad frowns at Gareth's methods, but asks him, "What broach? What matron? Then he goes to Jus. "Jus what have you done?"
Gareth Thursday October 28th, 1999 8:36:59 PM
looking at Onrad whispers "No names! Not now."
Saire Thursday October 28th, 1999 9:40:59 PM
"Yah, sure Onrad, I think I can be of some service... but first I have a few questions. What meeting, where, with who and what for! This whole thing sounds terribly familiar to me... seeing as how I'm down here because of a meeting that went all wrong, as they usually do with drow, because they're back stabbing liars who can't be trusted. Their idea of fair trade is two for me, none for you. And Oh Saire, by the way... We'll Take Your Serpent Inn Coin while we're at it! Saire stops his ranting and pauses a moment. And what was that guy... (pointing at Jus)doing a little while ago?
Tericus Friday October 29th, 1999 2:18:59 AM
watches Onrad and Jus walk outside, walking past him at the door. then he turns to Gareth "I've heard songs that tell of drow using spider like devices to track their friends and enemies. If Jus has something like that, we should get rid of if right away."
Teko Friday October 29th, 1999 4:06:59 AM
Teko moves quickly through the doorway with the rest of the party.
Jus Friday October 29th, 1999 8:48:59 AM
As Nonam pulls Jus down the alley, Jus looks back towards the street memorizing the face of anyone looking his way. When they come to the others, Jus glances at Gareth without any acknowledgement; instead, he walks to the other side of the alley and drops his pack. Jus fishes out his Ion Stone's elegant box, and places the spider on the purple velvet of its interior [for just a moment Jus remembers the image of The Purple Lady in the World Serpent Inn and smiles]. Jus examines the spider carefully, then shuts the lid. When Onrad comes out, Jus raises one hand to interrupt him. Without a word, he opens the box, displaying the spider for Onrad's inspection. "Ah, yes," Jus says, chuckling as he closes the box again, "I've just been given an invitation to tea with a Matron." His eyes betray his humor; Jus is disturbingly calm, with a "don't mess with me" attitude. Shouldering his pack, he quips, "Sure wish I knew what this little guy was for. Ah, well. I guess I'll find out when it teleports me to her veranda tomorrow morning." Peeking back into the box, Jus asks, "I don't suppose you can tell me what you are for?" As he waits for the unlikely response, Jus tells Onrad, "The impression the Matron gave me is that this will either take me to her veranda, or provide safe passage to it -- maybe as a key or a signet." With a shrug, Jus closes the box and begins examining the alley walls in the hope of finding a suitable loose brick he can Wizard Lock the box behind.
Onrad Friday October 29th, 1999 2:50:59 PM
Onrad is fuming!! He whisper yells. "Shut up Gareth. Don't tell me what to do." He listens and watches Jus for a second going from fuming to boiling! "Think elf! We're dead now! She can trace you through that thing! Did you think of that?? And where do you get off trusting a drow Jus? You hate them! I've seen it just yesterday. Or did you just fall in love with an evil drow you don't know? What if she has wind of what's going down tonight? What if she's Matron Baenre? What if she's here to spy on us whom she was expecting? Destroy that thing now or we might as well just head for home!" Onrad moves to the rear of the party in a huff. When everyone stares at him, he just stares back motioning for the ones in front to move out. Onrad's thoughts whirl in turmoil ::gods we're gonna die down here. this place is a death trap. i nearly got my brains sucked out. i just told gareth to shut up. jus is in love with a matron. gods we're gonna die down here:: He whisper yells again, "Move!"
The Scene in the Latrine (DM Jerry) Friday October 29th, 1999 2:58:59 PM
The stink of the place assails your nostrils in this rank room. Time continues to pass. There is a "weight" to this place that belies description--a feel of the miles of rock pressing down. This is contradicted by the strange beauty of the place--beauty that could be greater appreciated if it wasn't mostly in the distance, away from the Stenchstreets. Stenchstreets. Never was there a nomenclature that more fit the area to which it was attached. Just when your olfactory senses begin to overload with one horrible smell, another takes it's place, causing eyes to water and faces to squinch up unconsciously from the effort to keep from smelling more.
Nonam Friday October 29th, 1999 7:16:59 PM
Though no one can see his head, Nonam glares at everyone in the room as they argue about spiders, then he finally loses it. A black robe with apparently no body in it starts to rant, "WHAT IS WRONG WITH ALL OF YOU!!! How we survived up to this point in our lives, I'll never know. Gareth, is running about like a crazed madman leaping through portals and running into inns without being prepared. Jus is accepting gifts from Matrons and chatting it up with them in the alley. Onrad, is acting like a spoiled child. We're all trusting a man that we met in Menobarranzan because he told us his name!?! If we can't pull it together right now, we don't deserve to be a dragon group and should just go back home right now and let someone else do this while there is still time. No more of this keeping secrets crap. If you know a good reason for keeping that spider, then tell us. If you know something about the drow that jumped out at us in the World Serpent then tell us. No more thinking that being a good leader means doing something first. If we're a group, then we should act like a group. Discuss plans. Make plans. Follow plans. No hidden agendas. Now, while you let that sink in, we have three things that need to be solved right now. 1)What is that spider? We need to identify it, but I don't have the spell memorized right now. 2)Who is Saire? Tericus, you're a priest. What's your judgement? Do you get any kind of reading, feeling, or whatever it is you do? Personally I think it's a little too convenient that he was waiting for us when we got here, helped us out of a jam, and then becomes part of the group. AND 3)How are we going to get out of here, and where are we going when we leave? -- And before you want to argue or yell at me, think about what I said. If we're going to be a dragon group, then we need to act like one. And right now, we're acting like a bunch of first timers with a lot of magic."
Kibo Friday October 29th, 1999 9:31:59 PM
Kibo shakes his head when he hears about the "spider", but on finding that Jus is in the process of ditching it, he nods quickly with approval. Thought the maelstrom of controversy blows around him, it seems to not touch him, "I agree that those things need discussed. However, our first priority at this moment is survival, and standing here to hash out our weaknesses will leave us all dead men. Saire may be an enemy agent, but he's had ample opportunity to betray us already. We can trust him at least long enough to navigate us to a safer part of the city. We came on this suicide mission, and we're going to see it thru. Stupid mistakes have been made, but we're currently alive, which means we have a chance to avert them. Now Saire, if you would please excuse our well-placed distrust, and lead us to a safer area, I would be very grateful." Kibo stands at the doorway to the alley, keeping an eye on roving patrols and possible bandits. At the moment, this military man (er, make that halfling) is all business.
Gareth d20=6 Friday October 29th, 1999 9:56:59 PM
takes a deep breath and listens to Nonam - thinking how insane this situation has become. From some invisible spot you hear an angry voice "I asked you before we stepped through if we should become invisible and you never answered me! That's YOUR job to advise on magic! Why ... wait. We aren't going to do this... Forget it, Nonam, I should have asked again. We know now. Are we together or no? I thought we were ready to be here. I thought we knew how to get to our meeting. Don't we have directions? All I know is we have no time to spare. We must be off. I would also say we better dispose of that spider before we say anything else. Unless you guys can tell me it's OK."
Jus Saturday October 30th, 1999 6:49:59 AM
Nodding agreement to Nonam, Jus walks to the back of the party. He places one hand on Onrad's shoulder and speaks, "I believe our danger began with our open revelations to the Lords of Diamonds" -- making sure Gareth sees a lightly reproachful look directed his way. With a tight squeeze before letting go of Onrad's shoulder, Jus adds in a firm voice, "Love has nothing to do with it... and I have no idea why the Dark... ummm... Ladies...," this word drips with sarcasm, "keep being interested in me. I still hate them, and would gladly kill them, but have reluctantly succumbed to my training." Jus raises the box slightly and shares his thoughts to everyone. "Despite how it seems, I do not do things without a reason... A wise elvish advisor once said 'If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will suffer a defeat.' We knew nothing of the Matrons, nor what we could expect. Now we know a little about this one's protections. Now we know my host for tea uses a spider as a sign. Quite interesting when you remember that someone recently mentioned spiders." Motioning to Kibo, Jus asks, "Can I see your new brooch for a moment?" When Jus gets the brooch Hatchme gave Kibo, Jus opens his box and compares the two spiders. Smiling mischievously, Jus continues, "Passwords and signs... always a good thing to know." Returning the brooch to Kibo, Jus finishes up with a wink, "I think we should find a tavern to talk about what sights we want to see while we are down here. Maybe we could even find someone more knowledgeable to identify this arachnid. On our way, let us discuss our new compatriot. Whatever we decide, he cannot leave us now."
Tericus Saturday October 30th, 1999 7:02:59 AM
after everyone has vented their frustrations and calmed down a bit, Tericus steps towards Nonam "My personal feeling about Saire is that we should keep a close eye on him. No offence, Saire, but I agree with Nonam, it does seem pretty convenient that you appeared when you did. I didn't pray for spells that would tell me of his intentions, so we will have to trust our instincts. Now," he says as he starts pulling out some potions out of his backpack "We need to start preparing for the task at hand. I have the means to make 6 of us totally immune to poison for 18 hours. From what I understand about Drow, they consistently coat their weapons with various poisons. Now we have to decide which ones of us I should use these on."
Saire Sunday October 31st, 1999 1:47:59 AM
I believe that the wise man continued by saying, "If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle." From what I can see there's a serious problem here. I will begin step 2 (Looks to Nonam). I'm fighting for my survival down here. I'm a business man and adventurer that foolishly ventured down here to make a profit. I learned a great lesson. The drow are fierce. Their focus and drive to dominate and destroy is unstoppable. (Looks at Jus) A little humility will go a far way down here. My advice is to stay low and not draw any attention. This is their playing field. Back to me.. I'm an honest man, and frankly I'm terrified. Please... trust me. (Saire adjusts his pack and equipment) We need to find some allies. What family do you intend to trouble? Surely we can locate rivalries and exploit them to are advantage. That is what you were doing out there I hope (smiles at Jus)
Gareth Sunday October 31st, 1999 7:14:59 PM
"I do not want to go to just any tavern to discuss plans. We just came from one. We need to find the 'Well of Darkness Tavern' quickly. That's where we're supposed to meet at midnight. The woman told us it was here - in the Stenchstreets. As for Saire - he didn't have to help us with that creature but he did. So we owe him enemy or no. We can let those we meet help us determine his intentions. Also, if I were trying to get out of here I'd hang around the entrance to the World Serpent Inn too and look for a chance. Wouldn't you? So far I see no reason for distrust - except that we just met. Which I agree is big. I only have about an hour left before I turn visible and have to use another charge and I don't want to do that. We need to preserve our magic. So let's get our bearings and go already! We can talk when we get to our destination."
Onrad Sunday October 31st, 1999 8:30:59 PM
Onrad's mouth drops at Nonam's accusation that he is acting as a spoiled child. He just stares at Nonam, pure anger in his eyes. Then he turns away, refusing to add to this already ridiculous situation. He swallows. Whispering, he says, "Saire, do you know the way to this 'Well of Darkness" place? I think I could use a Well of Darkness right about now." He breathes deeply and slowly and regains control of himself. "We should go." Onrad moves to the doorway, then pivots back to face the group. He surveys each face. "I love you guys: Gareth, Jus, Nonam. I humbly apologize if I've given you anything other than my best. It...I hope...It...It won't happen again." He pauses to get control of his feelings. Slowly his face grows hard and determined. "Kibo should take point with Gareth ready to take the brunt of any attack off of him. Tericus and Jus should perhaps follow. Teko and Nonam after them. Saire and I will take the rear, unless he knows where we are going. In that case he can walk with Gareth and show the way. Is that acceptable? If we need to ask someone where to go, how do we accomplish that? Who should do the asking?"
Nonam Sunday October 31st, 1999 8:49:59 PM
Not entirely surprised by the group response, Nonam shakes his invisible head and silently hopes that the group will mature a little more quickly. If only he could think of a way besides accusations to wake everyone up... "Let's just focus on the tasks at hand. That sounds like a fine plan Onrad. I have a suggestion, though I question its wisdom. How about I give my telepathy ring to Saire. He knows his way about down here, and he and Kibo together on the ring would probably be the most effective. I still don't entirely trust him, but it seems the best choice for now. Any thoughts? Kibo?"
Saire Sunday October 31st, 1999 8:52:59 PM
"I'm not sure where this place is, but I do know all of us should not go trouncing around the streets looking for this place, while trying to keep 6 invisible people together and out of trouble. That would be a disaster. I believe one person should volunteer to walk up and down the street once, invisible of course, and locate the inn. After that they can come back and tell us where it is, and then we can all go together. That makes sense to me." Saire furrows his brows, more serious than before, " I would volunteer myself, but I'm not trusted, I should remain with the group, (sarcastic) just in case I should decide to take all of you on.
Gareth Sunday October 31st, 1999 9:13:59 PM
"Either me or Kibo should go. Since Kibo has the telepathy ring I think he'd do best. That way he could stay in contact with Nonam. Perhaps both of you should go - unless we decide to go together. Which I think might be better - even if it is more difficult. Staying together is probably the safest option for everyone. What do you guys think?"
Kibo Monday November 1st, 1999 1:02:59 AM
"I agree -- I'll go scout out the location, and one other person needs to come along, although at some distance, in case I need help getting out of a situation. Everyone else needs to sit tight, although I'm still not comfortable about our current location. I'm not sure if the other half of the ring should go with the second person travelling with me, or should stay here, so that the rest of you know what's going on..." Kibo thinks for all of 2 seconds and says, "Someone here needs to have that other ring." Once everyone is agreed, Kibo quickly steals out into the alley, using his skills to slip along, looking for the Inn.
Tericus Monday November 1st, 1999 1:34:59 AM
seeing that no one is ready for his help yet, Tericus shrugs his shoulders and puts his potions away for later. then seeing that no one is taking his suggestions or comments seriously, he just goes over to the nearest wall, leans against it and pulls out his flute and begins to play softly, waiting for everyone else to resolve what they want to do
Saire Monday November 1st, 1999 2:00:59 AM
Saire walks over to Tericus, "Sorry to interrupt your playing (Saire figures conversation is the easiest way to keep the flute from finding an undesirable ear) , your idea about protecting ourselves from poison is good. Drow can kill the most powerful heroes with poison. They even killed Mordrid and Valdor of the Gold Dragons, both at the same time, with poison. You should allow your friends to share your potions. (using his most tender voice) I think everyone was just a little distracted about what to do next. Being stressed is natural for a top-sider down here.
Teko Monday November 1st, 1999 2:43:59 AM
To no one in particular, Teko says in a cool voice, "So, my kind friends, left any gnomes laying around lately???" He laughs in a low voice, "Never mind. Explain it to me later. And explain how you know I'm here when I'm invisible. Later, though. Lead the way."
Jus Monday November 1st, 1999 5:40:59 AM
"Gareth, I was trying to be subtle with the 'find a tavern'. No use telling the Wold where we are going." Jus turns around at Teko's voice, "Ah, good..." Looking around and seeing no Teko, Jus smiles, "I'm glad to hear your voice. Do you want me to remove the Invisibility I cast on you? You should have a few minutes left before it fades."
The Scene in the Latrine (DM Jerry) Monday November 1st, 1999 3:25:59 PM
Kibo leads the party in the order Onrad presented (since there were no objections to that). Saire walks beside Onrad. Nonam stands offering the rings still. Tericus puts up his potions in frustration. The party continues down the alley. Before they entered the alley, turned left, and found the open door and room on their right after the turning. Now they exit the door continuing to the right of the door and down the unexplored part of the alleyway. It Turns back and forth several times but basically runs behind the inn of the Lizardking and the street it was on. Eventually it turns right again exiting on the opposite side of the block from the Lizardking. There is another standard street. Seems this area known as the Stenchstreets is at least several dozen blocks long and wide.
Gareth Monday November 1st, 1999 5:37:59 PM
seeing Tericus become a bit miffed about the potions offers "No offense intended Tericus. I think we would do better to save those potions until after our upcoming meeting. It is then we are most likely to encounter poison wielding opponents - unless Jus's encounter causes a prior response...". As they move into the alley the warrior takes up his position behind Kibo preparing to support in case of an attack. He draws his shield and whispers "Shhhh". All of a sudden, what little sound he was making ceases.
Onrad Monday November 1st, 1999 7:44:59 PM
As the party heads off down the alley, Onrad looking the party over, sees that those visible look like an adventuring party stalking their way through the Stenchstreets. Onrad whispers, "Look casual. Don't look like....well adventurers." Onrad keeps an eye on both Saire, in a mocking fashion, and the rear and sides of the party. He pulls his cloak and hood close so that his face is somewhat hidden. (If your invisible, etc. please remind us often and send me an email about it.)
Saire Monday November 1st, 1999 9:29:59 PM
Saire pulls tight the hood of his cloak of displacement, activating it (in case of an impending missile attack from some unseen shadow or from some roof-top). Saire whispers out of the side of mouth so only Onrad may here, "Look around you, It appears that all that walk the Stench Streets are stalking about. They walk as if... anticipating the inevitable knife in the back. Can you feel the shivers down your spine?" "This was a God-awful idea to go marching down the streets like a band of lost children. Maybe someone will find us, and return us to mother. Matron mother most likely. This is not safe. We would be safer looking separate and weak, than looking numerous and strong. Full-hardy."
Tericus Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 1:08:59 AM
before he becomes silent, Tericus says "Perhaps your right. Still, its better to be safe than sorry." then taking his place in line walking down the street, he hears Saire's comments from the back. "I think that's a bad idea. If trouble does come, id rather be in a position where we can support each other rather than be in one where we get picked off one by one."
Kibo Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 1:32:59 AM
Kibo puts a little distance between himself and the others, a little annoyed at all the noise. He paces about 50 feet ahead of the group, and remains as unobtrusive as possible, while keeping eyes peeled.
Teko Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 2:40:59 AM
To Jus, Teko whispers, "No, thank you, I've used a charge from my ring. I'll just need to use another charge later on." Teko makes sure he is in position in line and moves as silently as his pace will allow.
Jus Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 3:40:59 AM
Jus gives a small noise of irritation when he realizes Teko wasted his Invisibility spell by using his ring -- then again, with Teko in the shadows, he may not have realized he was invisible. Shrugging, Jus looks around, enjoying this lack of enjoyment in the underworld -- he thought for sure it would be more exciting. "I'll have to talk with Saire, sometime," Jus thinks to himself. "I have to say I'm pleasantly surprised he's heard of Master Sun Tzu. So few humans look farther then themselves for wisdom."
A Day in the Life (DM Jerry) Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 8:11:59 AM
The party continues exiting the alleyway on the street behind the Lair of the LizardKing. There appears to be two noticeable tavern with the usual hanging placards. One a block to the left. One a few doors down on the right. A couple of blocks down further to the right there seems to be a strange hole in the ground. You see a large minotaur descend into is down some steps. A drow contingent of soldiers in formation moves away from you to your left. Passersby scramble to move out of their way. They corner a couple of orcs and begin to ask them questions. The look of fear in the orcs' posture can be seen even from your location. Two male drow exit the tavern on your right. 3 Kobolds seemingly drunk lean against a closed door across the street. 2 totally black faces dwarves cross the street to your right in front of the hole heading down a cross street. A drow priestess leading 2 huge spiders comes your way down the street from the right. A pool of green ichor or blood creeps from under a door directly across the street.
Gareth Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 5:26:59 PM
silently keeps pace with Kibo as he looks for the Well of Darkness. As he sees the minotaur descend down the hole he winces as that hole looks the most like a well... "Somehow I know that's going to be it. As if we weren't deep enough into the earth.". He observes the signs as he moves by - looking at the names of the places. He carefully observes the priestess and spiders as well as the drow guards - trying to get an insight as to their fighting tactics and any weaknesses they may have.
Saire Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 8:31:59 PM
"Yes Gareth, I do believe you're right. It seems likely that's what you are looking for" (While heading towards the well, Saire notices the Priestess coming their direction, and he tenses up. There's going to be an altercation here, I can just feel it! Saire begins inventing a plan in his mind in case there is a situation with the priestess. Something to do with a diversion... several drunk Kobolds. Saire looks over at the Kobolds and stares at them as he walks. He stares until one of them locks eyes with him. Then Saire casually looks away. Timing it out... so that about 15 to 20 seconds before interference with the priestess... he ACCIDENTALLY drops his money purse on the street below his feet. He continues to walk as if he is unaware of what has happened. If it appears that the party will make it to the well before the priestess arrives, then this thought... was merely a neurotic delusion. And Saire ceases to replay this mock scenario over and over in his head.
Onrad d20=15 Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 8:47:59 PM
Onrad not noticing what Saire does (failed perception check) continues watching the read and sides as the party continues. Onrad thinks to himself, that Izen would be a pretty safe place to visit this time of year. Nice friendly orcs and mirror groups. Pleasant Dark Lord Armies to fight. He also wonders to himself why the Drow keep a place as rundown as this in their city. Surely these evil beings had no sympathy for the weak and pitiful--but then Mind Flayers aren't weak and pitiful are they?
Jus d20=7 Tuesday November 2nd, 1999 10:24:59 PM
moves proudly down the street not caring really if he sticks out. He observes Saire's action and sees he did it on purpose. He rolls his eyes as he decides leave it on the ground as he moves by it hoping nobody saw - especially the priestess with her pets.
Tericus d20=3 d20=7 Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 1:22:59 AM
seeing Saire drop his purse and realizing that he did it on purpose, Tericus pretends not to notice and continues walking along with the others. he thinks to himself while looking at all the evil creatures around, how did I get talked into coming down here?
Teko d20=18 d20=9 Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 2:51:59 AM
Teko barely sees the purse fall, but he notes that it was dropped intentionally. He looks to see whether any passers-by notice it, but otherwise continues walking. He watches the Drow, their movements, their weapons, their clothing, trying to form stable, realistic images.
Cricks in Necks (DM Jerry) Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 4:47:59 AM
Saire continues to walk beside Onrad in the back of the party. The back of the party where he has been since he did not know where the Well of Darkness was and therefore did not walk beside Gareth. The party all strain their necks turning to look at Saire amazingly hearing the soft sound of money in a sack hit the pavement. [Sense my chagrin?] The party passes the priestess and the spiders, though she stares at Jus as she goes by. The hole in the ground has a placard hanging beside a staircase heading down into the darkness which says in several languages, "The Fiend's Pit." Kibo looks right left and ahead. Ahead two blocks further on seems to be another pit. Also to the right is a pit a few blocks down the road. Two blocks to the left is a intersection that has a darkness spell cast on it. Nothing can be seen of it's contents or what is beyond it. The Kobolds wait until the party is long gone and then run after the coins fighting each other to get to them. The priestess sics the spiders on them. They make short work of the Kobolds. She seems to keep a sly eye on the party as they proceed down the street. (Perception check at -2 for Saire to recognize the house insignia from his experience in Menzoberranzan.)
Kibo Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 12:58:59 PM
Keeping it simple, Kibo proceeds ahead two blocks to the next pit, with a sinking feeling that he's going to be looking under every pothole for the portal.
Nonam 3d4(2+4+4)+18=28 Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 4:39:59 PM
Now that he's had a few Drow to study, Nonam casts 'Alter Self' and changes his features into those of a tough looking drow with a scar down his cheek. He puts the staff back into its pocket. Then he drops his invisibility and walks amongst the group like he is in charge.
Gareth d20=11 Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 5:04:59 PM
watches the spiders take care of the Kobolds from his invisible and silent position... Watching the priestess watch them he jumps as a drow appears in the middle of the party. The pumped up warrior begins to take an attack position - until he realizes it must be Nonam. As the party moves away from the priestess he turns his attention to these holes the drow call inns musing to himself "These guys are weird. No wonder some of them want to topside!".
Jus Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 5:38:59 PM
locks eyes and pays the priestess a nod as he moves by - looking confident but respectful. As he moves on by the feeling of disgust he is having grows a great deal. As Nonam appears as a drow he doesn't hide his anger - for a moment - as he strides even more proudly down the street.
Saire d20=12 Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 8:39:59 PM
Saire, dropping his pouch to the ground, moans internally as he sees most the party straining their necks backwards to see his maneuver. "Good grief, I must be getting very rusty, or these guys are hyper sensitive to their surroundings. I'm not rusty, so these guys must really be something. Saire also notes the various looks on the faces of the party, as this happens(everything from disapproval to confusion. Saire thinks "What a hilarious display of power jockeying, everyone jumping like a jester to catch the attention of everyone else." Saire smiles and thinks to himself, "From this point on I'm not bending over backwards to please these guys. They don't deserve it. Although I like this Gareth guy." Then Saire sees Jus' pompous waltz through the stench streets, and Saire thinks, "This guy makes me want to vomit!" Saire then focuses his attention on the passing drow priestess. (perception check 12/20 passes)Saire notices the drow ensignia as she stops to make a meal of the drunken kobolds, "Poor fellas, wasn't even any money in that pouch," chuckle, " I've been broke since last week." Saire then snaps to the realization that they just passed the dark well. Onrad might notice that Saire is surprised and looks as if he wants to say something.
Onrad Wednesday November 3rd, 1999 8:49:59 PM
Onrad silently walks, his fear growing as he sees the spiders up close. He shivers as he notices that one of the spiders legs is as large as his arm. As he sees Nonam switching to Drow, he finds himself hoping that Nonam has enough magic to last the evening. He tries to catch Saire's eye and motion behind them at the priestess watching the party. Onrad hopes she didn't see Nonam change into a Drow. He walks up besides Nonam and motions slightly indicating the Drow priestess who was watching them.
Tericus Thursday November 4th, 1999 2:02:59 AM
covering his eyes with his hands, Tericus asks Jus, "Tell me when they are finished."
Teko Thursday November 4th, 1999 2:24:59 AM
The more Teko sees, the less he wants to make himself known. He keeps his mouth shut. He looks around constantly as though he were sight-seeing, but danger is the only thing on his mind.
The Hole in the Bottom of the.... (DM Jerry) Thursday November 4th, 1999 3:26:59 AM
The party passes up the first well with the placard of the Fiend and follows as Kibo leads on forward. A few minutes and a few denizens later, they arrive at the next well, a square affair. A placard of an old fashioned well with it's center solid black hangs just inside one corner. Someone has scribbled in something green "Darkness" on the left side of the lip of the square hole. There is no apparent means for descending into this well. A faint smell of sweet smoke rises from the hole. Faint laughter echoes up the sides for a moment.
Kibo Thursday November 4th, 1999 7:21:59 AM
Turning to Gareth, Kibo says, "This is crazy. The only way we'll know is if we go in. We COULD catch a patron and quiz it on what this place is called, but I'd more likely trust Jeb's White Lightnin' before believing an Menzonian answer." Turning to Saire, he says, "Do these things have some sort of permanent Feather Fall on them, or am I going to need some other ability to get down there." It's obvious in his stance that Kibo expects to go check it out while the others stay on the 'surface'.
Gareth Thursday November 4th, 1999 6:40:59 PM
disables the silence and looks down the hole - being careful not to get too close to Kibo (as he's still invisible). "This it? Maybe we should just hang around until we see someone leave or arrive. Then we can do what they do."
Jus Thursday November 4th, 1999 6:44:59 PM
looks around at this and the other holes to see how people are entering. He studies the sign to determine if he can glean any information not readily seen by a "non-elven" being.
Onrad Thursday November 4th, 1999 7:43:59 PM
Onrad approaches and peers over the edge. "We saw that Minotaur climbing out of the last one. He looked like he was going up some stairs." Onrad then removes himself from the others to watch the area around the party while Kibo and the others figure out how to get down into the establishment. He watches to see if that priestess is still watching them. Onrad shivers as he waits in this alien place for something to happen and hoping that it won't.
Saire Thursday November 4th, 1999 8:43:59 PM
"I believe it's simply a darkness spell. It serves as a curtain or something like that. Try entering the place as if it we're cold water. Sit on the edge and dip your feet in until you find something to walk on, then just slowly go to it." Saire tries to remember the house ensignia of the priestess that was watching them. He made his perception check last turn.
Teko Friday November 5th, 1999 2:02:59 AM
"A leap in the dark does not sound like the way to achieve success. But we may have to try." Teko pauses for a few seconds and speaks again. "Listen to the laughter." Teko listens closely, hoping to hear the laughter again to get at least some idea of what it's about. A party, perhaps? A torture chamber?
Tericus Friday November 5th, 1999 7:38:59 AM
joins Onrad, as there is enough people examining the hole. "Onrad, I've never seen such utter contempt for other beings. I know those kobolds are evil and probably did deserve the fate they got, but it still doesn't sit right with me." he says as he helps Onrad keep an eye on the priestess and other dangers walking around
Denius Friday November 5th, 1999 3:19:59 PM
In chains in the corner of the room he hears the voices of men then starts to moan hop to attract them into the hole to get him in hope he can be saved 5'5/greenish blue eyes/brown hair/tan complexion/looks about 19 but he is an elf so you know he is much older than that Heelp...... me.
The Sounds of Darkness (DM Jerry) Friday November 5th, 1999 8:31:59 PM
(First to Denius, whoever you are. This game is closed. We're happy to have you looking around, though. Email me at gericko@aol.com if you want to play in one of our games. I'll try to find you a spot.) Saire thinking long and hard about the priestess finally visualizes the emblem. The priestess is from House #3 Oblodra, the most secretive as well as the most treacherous and unpredictable of all the houses. A crunch of rickety stairs catches Kibo and Gareth's attention. Something is rising from the well!
Kibo Friday November 5th, 1999 11:38:59 PM
Kibo stands back slightly from the well, assuming a less-threatening appearance to whatever emerges, and notes the location of the stairs once the being exits. Assuming a confrontation fails to occur, Kibo advances to the edge and makes his way downward into the nightmare, with a unfocused hard look on his face.
Saire Saturday November 6th, 1999 3:15:59 AM
People standing near Saire hear him exclaim under his breath, "Shat! House Oblodra. A very unlucky encounter." In a louder voice (so the people around the well can hear) "We need to go inside guys."
Saire Saturday November 6th, 1999 3:16:59 AM
Saire, being further towards the back of the group, does not hear the footsteps coming up the stairs.
Nonam Sunday November 7th, 1999 3:35:59 PM
Nonam indicates to Onrad that he isn't concerned about the drow priestess since he changed while invisible. "Don't worry about it. Having Jus walk around in the open is a bigger problem." After that he remains silent by the well as everyone discusses things. Then he points out, "Down there we have a closed environment, even if it's a trap. Up here, we face a potential conflict with every creature in the city. Let's go down." He moves toward the opening as if he will do so.
Gareth Sunday November 7th, 1999 5:15:59 PM
frowns at Saire's words and whispers "Just what we need. To draw attention from all the other houses. I wonder what house that Matron Jus talked to is from?". When he hears the stairs no one can see begin to creak he stands ready and waits for whatever is rising from the pit hoping it's not another bald thing with tongue tentacles - or worse yet, another drow Matron...
Jus d20=2 Sunday November 7th, 1999 6:24:59 PM
frowns anew at Nonam's chiding. He hisses in a very 'Un-Jus', intensely hateful way "I'll not become one of them unless I have no alternative! Leave me be!". As the war rages within him he is becoming aware that he'll have to do something - and soon... Preparing to unleash on Gareth the troubled elf decides against it as the warrior only asks a general, non-antagonistic question - which he considers (made intelligence check to determine if the spider he received was the same as the one on the priestess - or similar to the one Hatchme gave Kibo)"
Onrad Sunday November 7th, 1999 8:38:59 PM
His senses overloaded, with the constant vigilance and danger, he continues backing and leans on the wall of the nearest building while the party clusters around the hole. He occasionally glances here and there keeping an eye out for danger. He especially watches the priestess and her spiders, shuddering as he sees their hairy lets and bulbous abdomens.
Teko Monday November 8th, 1999 2:54:59 AM
When Teko sees the others react to something apparently in or around the well, he steps back, watching, but staying out of the way. While he waits, he holds his nose shut, hoping to block out the smell of this wretched place.
Tericus Monday November 8th, 1999 3:28:59 AM
continues to stand guard with Onrad, but he stays where he is, continuing to watch the priestess and the spiders, but also glancing around to see if anything else looks like it might threaten the party
The Stomping of Midgets (DM Jerry) Monday November 8th, 1999 4:12:59 AM
The stomping gets louder, and after a few minutes of this, a Fire Giant emerges. He looks at the "squirts" in front of him and says, "Grrrrhuhghkk," which seems to mean, ::better move:: He pushes roughly through the party and marches down the street. The priestess chooses this moment to turn down a side street. The fire giant exited at the left front corner of the pit. About this time a quiet tone sounds from a distant pillar. It sounds a total of 11 times. The sound can easily be heard throughout the city.
Kibo Monday November 8th, 1999 2:07:59 PM
Letting certain death pass him by, Kibo enters the pit, making sure the first step connects before plunging into darkness. He hugs the wall, not wishing to test his tumbling skills at the moment.
Nonam Monday November 8th, 1999 2:44:59 PM
Drow Nonam arches his eyebrows, "The gong is certainly for us. Let's waste no time." He begins the climb down.
Jus Monday November 8th, 1999 5:40:59 PM
smiles a mischievous smile as he takes his turn descending. He muses to himself "I think I'd look good as a fire giant. But not yet...".
Gareth Monday November 8th, 1999 6:26:59 PM
Waits for all the others to enter before descending. "I'll go last. That way there will be no surprises from the back.".
Onrad Monday November 8th, 1999 8:14:59 PM
Onrad motions Gareth to go ahead. "I've got it, friend. With my dex abilities, I'm more capable than you to be in the back on these steps. Plus, I hit just about as well as you do now." He smiles. "Thanks again for the save back there, though. Once again, you've saved my life." After everyone else has descended down the steps, Onrad will follow a few feet back to give him some maneuvering room. As his head disappears below the lip of the well, he looks one final time for followers or dangers. A few seconds after that, he pops up once more and looks again. Sighing, he proceeds carefully feeling for each step.
Teko d20=19 Tuesday November 9th, 1999 2:34:59 AM
Teko (not making his dex check) just BARELY misses making it into the well before Onrad. Staying just out of striking distance, he says to Onrad, "Onrad, it's Teko. I'll follow you or step ahead, as you like." In either case, he steps into the well.
Tericus Tuesday November 9th, 1999 6:01:59 AM
after taking a last look at the streets, Tericus takes his turn descending into the dark hole.
Bring on the night (DM Jerry) Tuesday November 9th, 1999 8:22:59 PM
The party one by one descends into the hole by means of an unseen staircase. After the first 20', the darkness spell is lifted and the whole bottom of the pit is revealed as a tavern with a circular bar in the center of the pit and tables around. On the perimeter is curtained off privacy booths. However, the thing that immediately catches your attention is that you see no stairs below you. You cannot even see the stair upon which you stand! The stairs are invisible!
Gareth d20=12 Tuesday November 9th, 1999 9:21:59 PM
The invisible warrior carefully moves down the invisible stairs. Once he's made it to what appears to be the bottom he moves over to the wall in an area that is difficult to walk by. Then he quietly watches, looking for any sign of the drow they are supposed to meet. He keeps in mind the spider symbol of that drow woman from House Millithor... Zilvyra wasn't it? (Made Int check).
Saire d20=4 Tuesday November 9th, 1999 9:24:59 PM
Saire will move forward down the stairs as soon as the rest of the party advances forward. "Just keep on going like you normally would," Saire thinks to himself after not seeing the invisible stairs. (4/20 Dex Check passed). If the party moves slowly, he will use the time to visually take in the bar. Saire ponders, "Have I ever heard any noise in Menzo. like the 11 tones I heard outside the bar?"
Jus Tuesday November 9th, 1999 9:29:59 PM
smiles as he walks down the invisible stairs, making sure Onrad makes it down (as he said he was last). He then boldly walks over to the bar and orders an ale as he listens to the conversations in both elven and common (if there are any) and tries to confirm that this is indeed "The Well of Darkness".
Kibo d20=8 Tuesday November 9th, 1999 11:44:59 PM
Seeing Jus take the initiative, Kibo focuses on finding an unoccupied corner table for the crew. He ignores specific noises or conversations, focusing on the general 'buzz' to detect any increases in volume or pitch that generally indicate 'problems'.
Teko Wednesday November 10th, 1999 2:23:59 AM
Teko maintains silence. After reaching the floor he moves out of the way of traffic but keeps an eye on the others.
Tericus Wednesday November 10th, 1999 4:04:59 AM
watching where everyone steps before him, Tericus steps where they step until he gets down to the bar then waits for everyone else to enter
The Stomping of Midgets (DM Jerry) Wednesday November 10th, 1999 4:56:59 AM
When Jus' drink comes, there is the tavern's logo on the napkin. 'The Well of Darkness.' A Hobgoblin, growls at Gareth standing against the edge of one of the privy booths that circle the square tavern. Kibo obtains a corner booth in the opposite corner from the stairs you descended. Shortly, two richly attired females dressed in House Millithor family symbols descend from a different corner and walk, possibly purposefully past the party at the table and into one of the private booths. Once the curtain is opened to let them pass, you realize that even the booths have a magical darkness cast within them.
Kibo Wednesday November 10th, 1999 5:08:59 AM
Kibo leans over to Gareth and says in a subdued voice, "I'll state the obvious: We wait a minute, and then we stay on our guard for an ambush once we enter..."
Gareth Wednesday November 10th, 1999 2:13:59 PM
amazed at how everyone seem to SEE him, the invisible - that's invisible - warrior watches the two women enter the booth. Being in the proximity of the table Gareth offers "I would say we wait a few minutes and get closer to midnight. When we enter I'll not reveal myself until I know things are OK.
Nonam Wednesday November 10th, 1999 3:00:59 PM
Nonam goes and sits at the bar alone. He says to Kibo through the ring so he can't be overheard, "I can sit out here and keep watch while the rest are in the meeting." He then orders ale and asks the bartender, "What are all these humans doing in your place?"
Onrad Wednesday November 10th, 1999 7:41:59 PM
Onrad nods in the direction of where Gareth must be. (Sorry bout that David. I was in a hurry) He then returns to the bar so the group is not such a close knit target for spells and carefully samples his drink, but only a taste. No dulling of the senses tonight! Suddenly Onrad takes in a full cleansing breath of air and he realizes one advantage of these pit bars. There is no stench down here! Nice clean fresh...well not really fresh, but unsmelling air to breathe and almost revel in.
Onrad Wednesday November 10th, 1999 7:42:00 PM
Onrad nods in the direction of where Gareth must be. (Sorry bout that David. I was in a hurry) He then returns to the bar so the group is not such a close knit target for spells and carefully samples his drink, but only a taste. No dulling of the senses tonight! Suddenly Onrad takes in a full cleansing breath of air and he realizes one advantage of these pit bars. There is no stench down here! Nice clean fresh...well not really fresh, but unsmelling air to breathe and almost revel in.
Tericus Thursday November 11th, 1999 1:06:59 AM
acting on Onrad's suggestion, Tericus slides into the booth Kibo has procured for us so that we are not all standing around the bar, looking like targets. pulling out a stone, he pops it in his mouth, hoping the magical properties will help soothe his nervousness
Saire Thursday November 11th, 1999 1:38:59 AM
Saire sits at the corner table with Kibo and Tericus. "Well guys, what's next?" CURRENT STATUS: DISPLACEMENT (Guys, I suggest that we all do this "status" every so often in order to help Jerry out. Plus, I can't even remember everyone's current state, visible or invisible, etc.)
Teko Thursday November 11th, 1999 2:52:59 AM
Teko, still invisible, for another moment remains where he is. He watches to see if the other party members move to follow the duo from House Millithor.
Jus d20=6 d20=7 Thursday November 11th, 1999 5:38:59 AM
sits at the bar and eyes 'Nonam' the drow. He smiles/grimaces at the pathetic attempt he makes imitating one of them - but does give him credit for trying (Wisdom check 6). He watches the two Millithor women enter the booth. He tries to identify them as either the one's he has seen or perhaps by their markings and clothing what 'rank' they hold: daughter, granddaughter, priestess, etc. (Int check 7) He sips his ale and becomes aware of his surroundings - especially the things he doesn't see...
"The weight of indecision's in the air." [Kansas](DM Jerry) Thursday November 11th, 1999 6:32:59 AM
The party sits and waits. Some at the bar and some at the table with Gareth in the proximity of the table. Everyone notices how nice and fresh the air is down here. Jus is positive that these are two daughters of Matron Millithor. He notices that one leaves a single drop of blood on the floor as she crosses the room. It's hard to remember but there might have been the trace of a grimace from the second of the ebony women. Gently, so that it is hard to determine when the first chord is struck, a bard from some unknown location across the room from where Kibo's table is at begins to strum eerie chords in a minor key. [Play your favorite Dead Can Dance CD here. If you don't have one, go get one.] #Song of the Dispossessed: The river is deep and the road is long, daylight come and I want to go home. Awoke this morning to find my people's tongues were tied and in my dreams they were given books to poison their minds. The river is deep and the mountain high, how long before the other side. We are their mortar, their building bricks and their clay. Their gold teeth mirror both our joys and our pain. The river is deep and the ocean wide, who will teach us how to read the signs. The earth is our mother. She taught us to embrace the light, now the lord is master she suffers an eternal night. You blocked up my ears, you plucked out my eyes, you cut out my tongue, you fed me with lies, ...........oh Lord.
Kibo Thursday November 11th, 1999 2:05:59 PM
Kibo (who is currently COMPLETELY visible in the correct location), realizing he slightly misjudged Gareth's current location, leans a different direction and says, "I'll go ahead and check on our contacts, and use the ring to keep in contact..." With that, he slips away from the table and walks over to the sheltered alcove of the two drow. Slipping in, he enters so as not to startle the occupants, and bowing, says, "Greetings, my name is Kibo."
Nonam Thursday November 11th, 1999 4:20:59 PM
Keeping in character, Drow Nonam turns and gives the human who just came and sat at the bar [Onrad] his best 'you'd better die' glare. His real motive is to make sure that he can see most of the room instead of the bartender's ugly mug.
Gareth d20=12 Thursday November 11th, 1999 5:16:59 PM
seeing Kibo's actions follows the halfling to the booth. Upon a response from the booth he whispers so that the occupants can hear "The Truth Will Out..." and waits for a response. He also tries to remember how long its been since he went invisible outside the first run down shack of a bar they encountered.
Onrad Thursday November 11th, 1999 8:49:59 PM
Onrad glares back at Nonam showing a full set of teeth, but gets up and circles to the other side of the bar. On his way there, he pauses by where he suspects Gareth is and whispers, "Give me the ring he just gave you. I'll stay out here and watch for trouble. I can keep up with things with this. I'll contact Kibo every 5 minutes." Onrad then continues circling to the other side of the bar and sits down with his drink. He pulls his hood down tighter and shivers for no apparent reason.
Jus Thursday November 11th, 1999 9:50:59 PM
wonders how one could live in such a place. They even worship the ground and not the gods in their songs! He is surprised Kibo was able to identify the drow women as being from the correct house but watches warily as he goes over to the booth. Taking note of the blood he decides it best not to reveal his association with the humans yet. His thoughts race ."I sure hope she is alright. I'd hate to lose one of them before we even have a chance to meet. Wouldn't look very good at all. Not at all. It sure is difficult to feel badly for them, though. Even if they claim not to be evil. We shall see."
Tericus d20=2 Friday November 12th, 1999 1:48:59 AM
still sitting in the booth, Tericus pulls out his flute and tries to learn the song the bard is playing, though he is playing as quietly as possible(made musical instrument check). in between playing, he chats with Saire "I guess we wait. I think the others are going to talk with who we need to talk to. Kibo just left, so I guess he's going to talk to who we need to talk to."
Teko Friday November 12th, 1999 2:46:59 AM
Quietly, but quickly, Teko follows Kibo into the alcove. He is still invisible.
Saire Friday November 12th, 1999 3:48:59 AM
"Well Tericus, I honestly don't know what in Gargoyle is going on right now. Hey, I think you got the tune going on now. Sounds pretty good! (Saire hums along softly). Boy, I sure am thirsty. Too bad I don't have a pot to piss in, or a glass to drink from for that matter. Perhaps you might spring for a cold beverage Tericus! (Saire smiles sheepishly) Anyway, a drink for my story; it might pass a little time. By the way, should I be concerned right now with what the rest of the party are doing? I'm just going crazy trying to figure what the other guys could possibly be talking about in that booth over there. (Saire looks at Tericus strangely) Are we in danger? I mean more danger than we've seen as yet. (whispers to himself) What the ---- is going on?"
Bathing the Night With Joy and Shadow (DM Jerry) Sunday November 14th, 1999 5:18:59 AM
Kibo enters a cubical and passes through a magical curtain of darkness to emerge on the other side. There is a booth there. In the booth on the other side are two drow women, who if they were human appear to be in their late 20's. They nod but say nothing. Gareth enters, invisible. The movement of the curtain reveals Gareth's presence, but not his appearance. Teko also enters the alcove. They look at the movements of the curtain then return their stare to Kibo. When Gareth speaks, one stares in your general direction and says in a lovely contralto voice, "Bathe the night with joy." The other bleeds from the mouth which is puffy and from a stab wound in the upper abdomen. She lays her hands on her stomach and heals herself, then dabs at the blood. Neither shows any emotion. Meanwhile, a shadowy figure emerges from a booth behind the table. It is uncertain whether he heard Saire's calling of Gargul's name or not in his nervous chatting, but this figure quietly moves directly to Saire, coming to a stop and opening his hand in greeting--revealing a tattoo of an Eye, Gargul's holy symbol. He wears a partial mask covering what looks to be some form of disfigurement.
Nonam Sunday November 14th, 1999 3:12:59 PM
Nonam smiles when the dirty human leaves. Then he sits and watches the room, frowning every time he sees one of the Three.
Onrad d20=10 Sunday November 14th, 1999 7:42:59 PM
Onrad's eyes widen slightly (perception check made) when he sees the masked figure emerge and approach Saire across the bar. He glances nervously at Nonam, at least he hopes it's still Nonam, for a second and then checks his pocket to see if Gareth gave him the ring he asked for. This is not going well at all, Onrad thinks. Too many people are finding them too easily. He glances around the bar for any taking interest in the party in a nonchalant manner. That bard sure has darkened the mood in here.
Gareth Sunday November 14th, 1999 7:46:59 PM
utters a muffled word and appears before the two elves. He bows politely and offers a greeting. "So we meet at last. I am Gareth of the Three and we are here to assist you. Please forgive our early arrival. We felt it better than risking a late entrance. Shall we wait or should we get our compatriots?". Looking at the wounded woman the concerned warrior says "I wish to offer you help - if you desire it - for your wounds.". He prepares to offer a potion.
Jus d20=8 Sunday November 14th, 1999 8:03:59 PM
seeing the curtains move realizes his two invisible compatriots entered with Kibo. He keeps an eye on Nonam the drow for a sign to enter for a council or for battle.
The Dark Masked Figure Monday November 15th, 1999 1:23:59 AM
Spreading his fingers in greeting he bows his head to the one named Saire. "GARG knows what is going on, that is why he sent me. The smell of death surrounds you and the Three. HE has sent me to remove it." Now that he has unwrapped himself from the shadows in the corner, it is clear he is a very big man. He is dressed in black, black shirt, pants, leather boots, and a sort of half coat half robe with no sleeves. All of his clothes look well worn and useful. A dangerous look scythe rests behind his head and strapped to his back, a light crossbow hangs at his side and on his left hand he wears a jeweled gauntlet. the left side of his face is 1/4 covered by a mask below which you can see old scars caused by a burn. There is something else about him that seems out of joint, but it is difficult to place. It almost seems as if he casts no shadow, but it's probably just a trick of the light.
Tericus Monday November 15th, 1999 1:48:59 AM
looks at Saire, "Sure, I have a few extra coins on me. Ill buy you a drink." he says as he starts fishing some coins out of his pocket when the dark man enters the booth, startling Tericus, who drops the coins. seeing the eye symbol, Tericus immediately recognizes it as Gargul's symbol, which causes him to grip his staff tightly and to have a spell prepared on his lips.
Kibo d20=19 Monday November 15th, 1999 2:05:59 AM
Startled by Gareth's presence, Kibo keeps his mouth shut, anger flashing in his eyes, which he quickly hides. Mentally in contact with Nonam (the holder of the other ring), he relays what is occurring inside the booth. He bows slightly to the women, and then steps backward, allowing Gareth the prominent position in the room.
Teko d20=2 Monday November 15th, 1999 2:41:59 AM
Noticing Kibo's ire, Teko takes pause. After a moment, however, Teko cancels the effects of his ring and becomes visible. He smiles slightly and bows to the drow, but otherwise allows the conversation to continue.
Saire d20=20 d20=10 Monday November 15th, 1999 3:07:59 AM
Saire gasps, (makes constitution check NOT TO HAVE A FRIGGIN HEART ATTACK, after seemingly seeing Gargul's apparition immediately appear after Saire's plasmaphous curse). I don't believe I know you (Saire's voice trembles noticeably). If you want to sit here I'll gladly move, uh, if you would like to sit here, but us, sitting together... it ain't gonna happen today, or tomorrow if Karinthis be with me! Come on Tericus, let's go get a drink together at the bar. (Saire rises, and scoots out of the booth in a manner as to keep kis parts as far a away from the stranger as possible.) Excuse me sir.
Closing Time (DM Jerry) Monday November 15th, 1999 6:05:59 AM
The 2nd of the daughters nods at Gareth, "I'll be fine. Various houses know we are to be killed tonight, but they won't make their move before House Baenre makes theirs." The first daughter also nods and says, "Yes, early you are, but there is no harm done. I should set things in motion though for other guests to come. Excuse me for a moment." She exits. Those outside in the bar see her make a quick hand signal to the barkeep who immediately echoes the sentiment drawing his finger across his throat. Just as Saire rises to move away from the priest of Gargul, House Millithor soldiers emerge from various darkness curtains around the tavern. The party is left alone, but all drow, and monsterkind are forcibly removed and sent packing up one of the stairs. Two drow approach Nonam and with death in their eyes, make a motion pointing him towards the stairs.
Nonam Monday November 15th, 1999 4:12:59 PM
Nonam calls out, "Onrad, Jus, would you help me with these gentlemen?" Should their testimony not be enough, he will drop the spell. Meanwhile, Nonam informs Kibo about the tavern clearing and the masked man through the ring.
Jus Monday November 15th, 1999 5:21:59 PM
looks over to the guards accosting Nonam and smiles at the thought of Nonam being escorted to the door - but quickly discards it and says "He's with us. It's a disguise. The masked man over there claims to know our plans through Gargul - but he is not one of us. Perhaps we should speak before he leaves.". The elf moves over to the masked man and asks "Do you have a message for us? We have heard once from your god recently. Do we need to know more?"
Gareth Monday November 15th, 1999 5:55:59 PM
notices Kibo's frustration. He listens intently to the ladies looking relieved that daughter #2 seems to be OK. As the clearing begins he leans over and whispers to Kibo "Sorry about that. You didn't begin with the password and I feared a misunderstanding. I couldn't remember if you knew it or not.". As the activity increases Gareth smiles and greets the second daughter. "My name is Gareth. To whom do I have the honor of speaking?". The warrior is as charming with his words and mannerisms as a human can be.
Saire Monday November 15th, 1999 8:45:59 PM
Saire, grabs his weapon and retreats into a corner as the drow enter from the back. He lowers his weapon when he realizes he is not their intent. Saire looks around the room, getting an accurate picture of the layout and the placement of the party members. He also takes note of all the drow and the various locations they used to conceal themselves. He looks about at the party and says, "I'm gonna stick my head out and see if everything is cool up top, I'm sure one of the patrons if not all of them are a little miffed about being rebuked."
Onrad Monday November 15th, 1999 8:50:59 PM
Onrad nods at the guards agreeing with Jus and then quickly moves to listen to what this Eye has to say. Onrad thinks to himself, ::I don't like this one bit. This operation is too known. Too many people are just coming up to them as if they know everything: that guy at the Worlds Serpent Inn, Saire, now this guy. Mix in with that the possibilities of the matron and the priestess possibly knowing something, and things begin to look like we just came in and announced our intentions!:: Onrad scowls at the Eye a bit nonverbally telling him he'd better explain himself well. Onrad's mind continues to whirl. ::All this either means that we are in way over our heads and everyone else is competent, or someone somewhere is pretending loyalty and is instead setting us up. The thing that is confusing though:: Onrad continues to think:: is that if it's a setup, it's a bad one! A real traitor would have covered his tracks better and have better reasons for supposed actions. This means we have an extremely good traitor, a badly prepared traitor, horrible planning mixed with very good luck, incompetence on our part, or a combination of the above.:: Onrad grimaces waiting for this Eye to reveal his intentions. He also watches Saire carefully. His arrival is just too convenient. Onrad's mind continues to whirl. ::What are they cleaning out the tavern for? Is there a spy here? Is there some reason we need the WHOLE tavern? Onrad suddenly gets a vision of dozens of priests, adventurers, and supporters all repeating endlessly, 'I'm here to help.' By the Gods! This is a nightmare!::
Tericus Tuesday November 16th, 1999 2:08:59 AM
seeing Saire up and leave him with the worshiper of Gargul alone, Tericus doesn't say anything, just up and leaves him sitting in the booth. seeing all the drow come out and throw out all the other patrons, Tericus just stands there by the booth, waiting to see what happens next
Teko Tuesday November 16th, 1999 2:41:59 AM
Teko watches as the drow steps out momentarily and returns. Teko moves back and forth from one foot to the other, seemingly impatient, but more likely nervous. He grins slightly at Gareth and Kibo and says, "I think our evening is about to begin." He looks down, finally noticing his foot-switching, and attempts to stand still.
Closing Time (DM Jerry) Tuesday November 16th, 1999 5:59:59 AM
Saire begins making his way carefully up the invisible stairs. The 1st daughter tries on a smile for size, something she evidently needs practice with and says, "I am Akordia. My half-sister is Irae. This tavern will serve as our headquarters for the evening. Others will be joining us. My sister will debrief them and send them on to their tasks. Our gratitude is great and everlasting. Take this as further evidence of our thanks." She hands Kibo a bag. "This bag of holding contains 10 potions of Complete Healing. There is also within a scroll of the Cleric Spell "Nap" which will also serve 10 persons." She stops up short, seeming to run out of things to say. Then she says, "The matron will join us shortly." She tries the smile again. It still isn't right. In the tavern outside the cubicle, the guards finish clearing the place, and some head to the surface with Saire, while others disappear back into cubicles to make themselves unobtrusive. Quickly those of The Three outside the cubicle are alone.....with the Eye.
The Masked Figure d100=25 Tuesday November 16th, 1999 6:46:59 AM
He seems unfazed by the sudden lack of interest in him. Upon seeing how the party and the drow jump and clear the room, and the guards approaching one of the others he says. "Ahhh the smell of death, Garg was right, it surrounds you all, it must be removed, you all must fulfil your quest." With that he whirls into a dark corner of the room and becomes masked in the shadows there.
Kibo Tuesday November 16th, 1999 12:28:59 PM
::Thinking to Nonam, 'We've made a deal with the devil':: Kibo graciously accepts the bag and places it in his backpack, mentally notifying Nonam about its supposed contents. Kibo barely notices Gareth's response, at the moment his eyes are darting more than usual as he scans the booth, remembering every detail. "Please, go ahead," he murmurs to the warrior as he prepares from the parade.
Nonam Tuesday November 16th, 1999 5:34:59 PM
Nonam takes out his staff and pulls the gift from Gargul out of the hidden compartment at the top. He calls out to the Masked Figure, "You see, One Eye has already favored us. What do your words mean?"
Gareth Tuesday November 16th, 1999 5:40:59 PM
smiles at the woman's vain attempt to be 'nice'. He muses to himself "Boy, they have a lot to learn up top... but first we must get there.". He speaks to the daughter. "May the gods smile on our efforts this night and on the House of Millithor. It seems they are interested in what will transpire. We have heard from a number of their highest ranking priests and followers of late. I look forward to meeting the matron. We thank you for the gift of potions and the scroll. We will use them wisely. It would seem we have much to discuss."
Jus Tuesday November 16th, 1999 5:49:59 PM
raises an eyebrow as the "Eye" moves into the shadow. "An ally I think. Even evil beings wouldn't dare impersonate a high ranking priest of another god. Not for long anyway.". Seeing the injured daughter healed and all the confusion of the clearing process he moves over to the booth with Gareth and the others - and enters. Hoping that this new elf will not react to him as the others did in Plateau City. As Gareth speaks he watches the drow woman closely.
Onrad Tuesday November 16th, 1999 8:11:59 PM
Onrad stands beside Nonam adding his own intense stare to Nonam's. "Yes, explain your presence here. Speak plainly man! Don't couch your words in priestly gibberish. What specifically are you here to do?" Onrad tries to take a good look at the man who hides so well in shadows attempting to access the man's strength, experience, quickness, and resolve.
Saire Tuesday November 16th, 1999 8:48:59 PM
Saire pushes his head out of the darkness. Like a ground hog spying for predators in his protective hole. He looks to the left , the looks to the right, looks forward, then turns completely around to look the opposite direction of the street.
Tericus Wednesday November 17th, 1999 1:47:59 AM
stares into the corner where the dark priest moved into, hoping that he has gone. then he notices that the Three are the only ones in the tavern, so Tericus moves towards the nearest table and sits down, still staring at the dark corner
The Masked Figure Wednesday November 17th, 1999 2:06:59 AM
The man having been spoken directly to steps out of the shadow to the left of where Nonam and Onrad were speaking. "One eye? That might amuse Him the next time He graces me, I shall remember. The Traveler felt that another gift was needed. He told me of the Three and their mission, and ... other things. I am here now, his second gift. He told me to remove the smell of death from about you and yours, to make myself a brother to those that would let me and an ally to those who wouldn't. I am here to force that smell upon your enemies and not allow it to overtake you. I am Bishop, gift of Garg, piece of Kings." He then bows deeply to both men.
Teko Wednesday November 17th, 1999 2:57:59 AM
As Teko sees the potions and scroll change hands his face brightens and, looking very relieved, he breathes a sigh. His face settles into a small but comfortable smile.
The Matron Arrives (DM Jerry) Wednesday November 17th, 1999 5:39:59 AM
Saire reaches the top of the well and observes completely empty streets in all directions, except for the backs of those leaving the Well of Darkness. The guard of House Millithor quickly takes up positions just below the lip of the well in all four corners on the stairs. They strip off their house colors revealing House Barrison Del'Armgo colors underneath. "In case someone does wonder who's requisitioned this establishment," explains a guard to Saire in broken common. Then, suddenly appearing in front of the well as if not there a moment before is a beautiful middle aged elf surrounded by 8 lean male fighters and 4 priestesses that by their age look to be granddaughters of the striking leader. She is dressed in greens and blues trimmed with very dark red. Her hair is long and silver hanging to her waist. She wears the colors and symbols of House Millithor as does her companions. She nods to the soldier and then sees Saire. She halts taking in the Gnome with her violet eyes and oval intelligent face. "You're a long way from home sir gnome," she states in such a way as to imply that she expects an explanation. Her guards display extraordinary discipline. Not one hand flinches towards a sword. Instead all calmly turn their attention on the one the matron would address. Below the second sister looks strangely at her sister. "Did you miss the signal sister. The matron comes." She points to a fading symbol of a spider on the wall of the booth, now slowly fading. (Would the cloaked figure [grin] please make a wisdom check please.)
Nonam Wednesday November 17th, 1999 5:16:59 PM
Nonam returns the vial back to its place in his staff and while doing so leans over to Onrad and whispers so that only Onrad can hear, "I think this guy is crazy. Pieces of Kings?" Then he looks at the Bishop and says, "I think you have mistaken us for someone else. That isn't the smell of death. It's just my friend's feet."
Gareth Wednesday November 17th, 1999 5:47:59 PM
stands ready. He moves out of the sisters' ways and stands outside next the booth entrance - and waits. He notes the conversation going on with Nonam Onrad, and the masked figure.
Jus Wednesday November 17th, 1999 5:51:59 PM
smirks inwardly at the daughter's oversight. He prepares for what comes next, standing next to Gareth. He whispers to the warrior "It would seem Gargul has sent us an ally. Apparently this is a big deal to him. He is a priest of some sort I believe."
Onrad Wednesday November 17th, 1999 8:12:59 PM
To Nonam in a whisper where the stranger cannot hear, "Well, it's evident he's not going to be forthcoming. He's determined to couch his language in religious rhetoric. We can't afford another loose end now. I think that unless that changes, we have to leave him behind. Perhaps Saire too. I wish we could do a truth-tell here or had a Priest of Alemi for an oathbonding. We have to be able to trust these guys. Have to."
Kibo Wednesday November 17th, 1999 11:28:59 PM
::OOC I thought the only characters aware of what was going on within the booth were Kibo, Gareth, and Teko (along with Nonam, via the ring) since the darkness spell covers the entrance...:: Kibo, seeing Gareth duck back to the entrance, looks over at the drow for a second, then strides over to the far corner (away from the alcove exit) to make room for the others (guessing that Gareth has gone to retrieve them). Based on their reaction, Kibo guesses the drow aren't chatty, so he keeps silent.
Gareth Wednesday November 17th, 1999 11:35:59 PM
OOC: Jus joined the party in the booth last turn. Nobody else knows what was said there. Turns appear to reflect this...
Saire d10=8 Thursday November 18th, 1999 1:53:59 AM
(Although Saire should be very surprised by the Matron's sudden appearance, the die roll 8/10 reflects that he is not.) " Ya... Ya... Yes your excellency, I am trespassing on grounds that I certainly am unworthy of soiling with my Gnomish feet (Saire bows lowly and long). Please do not judge me harshly. My presence is entirely accidental. But as things seem, I am currently at your service. I have no qualm with your proud family. But I must state with all the weak truthfulness of my Gnome heart, I am no friend of house Banrae. And I must swear with truth, I have no intention of dying in Menzoberrenzan. With that said, I will step out of your path, and await your immediate wishes." (Saire steps out from the well and stands aside in order to let the party pass. He will follow as they wish or after they pass by.)
Teko Thursday November 18th, 1999 2:32:59 AM
Teko watches, furrowing his bushy brow, and cocks his head in a pose much like that of a puppy. He waits.
Tericus Thursday November 18th, 1999 3:00:59 AM
continues to stare at Bishop with a stern look on his face, then says "Any so called gift from the bringer of death can only be a cursed gift. I can see no good that comes from this gift." then he waits for Bishop's response
Bishop (The Masked Figure) d20=19 Thursday November 18th, 1999 3:17:59 AM
The dark man laughs at the joke Nonam makes, the sound is full, pleasant and comforting, a twinkle of mischief flashes through his eyes. He seems to be enjoying the moment to much to notice much that happens around him. (OOC: Can we get into a combat soon cause I haven't rolled under a 17 in 8 weeks! KNOCK ON WOOD)
Bishop (The Masked Figure) Thursday November 18th, 1999 4:18:59 AM
Turning to look at Tericus Bishop, the mirth leaving his voice, says. "You kill at times do you not? From what I have heard of the Three they have fought many battles, if you have been with them any length of time I am sure you have had occasion to kill. Garg does not bring death, he watches over it so that it is not perverted or twisted. We mortals are the bringers of death. He is the guardian, and the gate, the protector of the afterlife, without whom no mortal would EVER reach the lap of their god."
A Momentary Lapse of Reason (DM Jerry) Thursday November 18th, 1999 2:37:59 PM
The 2nd daughter staring strangely at her sister for a few seconds and nods to Jus. "Welcome. I am Irae. My sister is Akordia." Akordia wheels on her sister pure hatred in her eyes for a second. Akordia's face though remains bland retaining control at all times. Above, the Matron seems to make a decision about this gnome and signs something at one of the guards with Saire. The guard doesn't seem to see the sign though. One of the guards with the Matron slips his hand to his sword at this lack of attention. (Jus and Saire perception check at -4. Eye, repeat your check.)
Nonam Thursday November 18th, 1999 3:30:59 PM
Nonam gives Onrad an uninterpretable look, "As you can see, my friend Tericus worships life, so I imagine you have some obvious theological differences... BUT for someone like me, I would guess you'd bring a balance to the group. So welcome, I'm Nonam Firstorlast. And where is your diocese, Bishop?" Nonam completely ignores the entering drow as the priest is much more interesting at the moment.
Kibo d20+4=20 Thursday November 18th, 1999 6:46:59 PM
Keeping an eye on Akordia, Kibo discovers, for some strange reason, that he prefers her to her sister. He looks back over to Jus, to see how he'll play this one out.
Jus d20=3 Thursday November 18th, 1999 6:48:59 PM
bows gallantly to the two drow women and says "It's and honor to meet you. I have not had an opportunity, and know only of very few who have had the chance to ally themselves with our dark cousins. I welcome the opportunity.". He does this flawlessly and without any sign of hesitation (made ability roll) - but inwardly, the warrior-mage wonders of the wisdom of this endeavor - and hopes...
Gareth Thursday November 18th, 1999 6:51:59 PM
stands tall and watches for the Matron who is apparently coming. He notices that Saire is missing - and tries to make eye contact with the others to get an answer on where he is. He whispers to the halfling, "Kibo, ask Nonam where Saire is. I don't see him."
Onrad Thursday November 18th, 1999 7:49:59 PM
Onrad returns Nonam's bland look wondering what it means. He thinks to himself, ::This Wold would be a lot nicer if everyone just said stuff. I hate all this pretending to be this and that.:: Onrad moves to a position where he can observe both the priest and the stairs where Saire ascended. ::What's wrong with me down here?:: Onrad continues to think. ::I welcome Saire without a comment or a doubt, yet this priest coming into our midst makes me doubt my earlier trust. Now I'm even doubting Nonam's motives...not that that's a first.::
Saire d20=8 d20=10 Friday November 19th, 1999 2:46:59 AM
Saire makes perception check 8/20, and is apparently waiting for the outcome of the situation at hand. Saire makes second perception check 10/20. He notices the second drow guard reach for his sword. Saire immediately goes invisible and retreats into the bar.
Tericus Friday November 19th, 1999 6:32:59 AM
as Tericus listens to Bishop's comments, his face turns redder and redder with anger. when Bishop is done, Tericus screams, "PREVENTS THE CORRUPION OF DEATH!?!?! HOW DARE YOU SAY THAT!!!!!" he grips his staff tightly, with every intent on striking the dark priest with it, but then he takes a deep breath and is able to regain his composure somewhat. "How do you explain the walking dead? Wights, Ghosts, Skeletons, and such. To me, and to my goddess, that is the ultimate perversion of life. But I guess someone like you wouldn't consider that 'twisted and the perversion of death'." he looks like he's about to say more, but he just turns away and walks over to the bar, giving Nonam an icy glare as he goes.
Bishop (The Masked Figure) d20=13 Friday November 19th, 1999 6:40:59 AM
To Nonam Bishop smiles and says "I hale from the north, Cinnamon Valley, however I was taken into Garg's family in Floating City." Then turning to the retreating form of Tericus, "I am sorry that you have lived such an uninformed life, Garg sees the undead as a perversion of the balance of life and death, It is my sworn duty to destroy all such perversions. I have never backed away from destroying the undead and I never will. Most people like yourself fear what they do not understand, it is clear that you understand little of His purpose, I am sorry for that and would be more than happy to help re-educate you. You will find that your and my life philosophies are much more alike than you may know." (Makes Wis check)
I'm Melting (DM Jerry) Sunday November 21st, 1999 2:35:59 AM
Jus, while scrutinizing his drow sisters, observes something minutely strange about Akordia. Not anything you could put your finger on, but an overall effect of being not quite right. An ear not exactly pointed at the right angle. A small difference in the expression on her face. An accent not quite correct. A Hand with a wrinkle that looks a bit off. What happens above is lost to Saire as he makes his way downstairs as invisible as the stairs that hold him. As Saire chooses his steps on the stairs he cannot see and enters the darkness, he notices the same thing about the guards that went to the surface with him. (We'll assume 3 minutes to descend the stairs if hurrying, which will involve a dex check. Two if being careful.) Just that little something in the shape of the hand that grips the sword. Meanwhile, Bishop gets that tell-tale warmth in his blood that reveals the presence of an unnatural being in the vicinity. (Kibo, please make a perception check to notice the same things about Akordia.)
Kibo d20=19 Sunday November 21st, 1999 3:54:59 AM
Unaware of any discrepancies (and he'll be kicking himself when he DOES find out), Kibo continues watching Jus' handling of the encounter, waiting for any others to enter the booth.
Nonam Sunday November 21st, 1999 4:48:59 PM
Nonam frowns as he realizes he hasn't been paying attention to the drow. He stops worrying about Bishop for a few moments and turns his full attention to what's happening with the drow. He asks through the ring, "Kibo, how are things going in there?" while keeping an eye on the main exit and any others that the patrons were forced out of.
Jus Sunday November 21st, 1999 6:04:59 PM
frowns at the discovery of the poorly executed illusion. He looks carefully at the other daughter to see if she too is "off". Once done he turns to Kibo and whisper's "I need you're ring a moment. Quickly, the poison returns... I'll return it shortly.". He grabs his hand and pulls the ring off - gently. He puts it on and tells Nonam with this thoughts "I'm afraid we have a problem. One of the daughters is an illusion - or has one cast on her. She is not who she says she is. Do we blow the whistle now or do we wait? The matron may be in danger.".
Gareth Sunday November 21st, 1999 6:08:59 PM
watches the actions of the drow as they mill around. He memorizes the sisters and their names. Listens for sounds of the matron.
Onrad Sunday November 21st, 1999 7:42:59 PM
Onrad continues to wait, calm and composed on the outside, but very tense and suspicious on the inside. He keeps within sword's length of Bishop. He gives Gareth a...::no don't want to give anything away. Oh, that's what Nonam was doing.:: Turning to Nonam, Onrad gives him an identical look to the one Nonam had given Onrad earlier, then looks at Gareth a blank expression on his face. ::By the Gods, I can be so ignorant sometimes.::
Onrad Sunday November 21st, 1999 7:43:59 PM
Onrad continues to wait, calm and composed on the outside, but very tense and suspicious on the inside. He keeps within sword's length of Bishop. He gives Gareth a...::no don't want to give anything away. Oh, that's what Nonam was doing.:: Turning to Nonam, Onrad gives him an identical look to the one Nonam had given Onrad earlier, then looks at Gareth a blank expression on his face. ::By the Gods, I can be so ignorant sometimes.::
Tericus Monday November 22nd, 1999 1:43:59 AM
realizing that there is more evil in the room besides Bishop, Tericus says "We'll talk about my 're-education' later." he stays where he is, but makes sure that he can see the entire room
Teko Monday November 22nd, 1999 3:14:59 AM
Teko waits for the party to assemble together. He gazes at the drow periodically and smiles a friendly smile if they happen to look in his direction.
I'm Melting (DM Jerry) d20=16 d10=6 d20=3 d20=14 d20=8 d20=10 d20=3 d20=8 Monday November 22nd, 1999 3:42:59 AM
Suddenly from somewhere above the sounds of combat is heard. Saire realizes that those above him are now fighting. A lone figure screaming in a strange high pitched voice and falls all the way from the top, breaking the table that Tericus is sitting at. He has a dagger in his back. A moment after he hits, his body coalesces into a thick gooey mass and flows onto the floor. At this moment, inside the booth a pseudopod whips out of Akordia's chest and strikes at her sister while it changes form and moves under the table running like goo. He hits the other drow for a mighty blow in her face leaving the other bloody. In the bar, soldiers jump out of their booths filling the chamber with flashing transforming bodies. 3 strike at Bishop from the rear each missing it's target. A high eerie scream issues from transforming mouths as they miss. Two more attack Tericus. One from the booth behind and another appearing after his attack from the front. Both of these miss as well.
I'm Melting (DM Jerry) d20=5 d20=15 d20=20 d20=19 d10=3 d20=8 d20=1 Monday November 22nd, 1999 3:49:59 AM
The barkeep jumps across at Gareth diving and attempting to dislodge Gareth's sword from his grasp.(I ran out of dice space and so started a second post.) He misses and continues moving joining his comrade under the table in the booth. (Gareth may make a break attack as well as his normal stuff.) Two figures jump over the bar from where they were hiding and transform, one attacking Onrad and one Nonam. Both are hit. Onrad hit with a 15 and Nonam with a 20 and a 19 critically. Onrad takes 3 hit points of damage and Nonam takes 9. We're in combat gentlemen. It is now your initiative. Their AC is 5.
Kibo d20=6 d20=17 d20=3 d3=2 Monday November 22nd, 1999 5:40:59 AM
Grabbing darts from his pants 'pockets', Kibo quickly slings them at the pseudo-creature in the booth, but in his haste two of these fly wide, one imbedding itself in the table, and the other careening into the folds of the curtain. The middle dart hits the creature true, causing 2 points of damage. Not having time to analyze the effectiveness of this attack, Kibo quickly pulls his scimitar as he darts under the table, preparing to take the enemy from below, and using the table to shield himself from counter-attack when he does so.
Bishop Monday November 22nd, 1999 6:16:59 AM
Bishop goes stiff and his eyes go white, a deep voice issues from deep within his chest. "UNDEAD" his scythe leaps into his right hand, with his left he touches his hand to his chest and says "Protect" A black shadow from within the cleric comes and wraps itself about him. (He is now AC -2) He then points out any hidden undead to the party.
Nonam d3=2 Monday November 22nd, 1999 4:20:59 PM
Nonam points his fingers at the thing that attacked him and casts burning hands (20pts sav 1/2). Nonam is careful to leave Onrad and any other party members out of the spell, but if possible he'll angle it to get any other bad guys. (5ft 120deg semi circle around Nonam)
Gareth d20=20 d20=8 d20=17 d20=20 d20=14 d8+10=14 d8+10=12 d8+10=14 d8+10=13 d8+10=14 Monday November 22nd, 1999 6:08:59 PM
Deftly avoids the attacking goo ball and strikes it as it passes by (20 and 8 hit). As it crawls in a cowardly fashion under the table he brings hi sword down on the middle of the table splintering it into many pieces (17 hit). He then attacks the other creepy crawly as it extracts itself from the table shards. (see 2nd turn for damage. Ran off the screen).
Gareth Monday November 22nd, 1999 6:11:59 PM
creepy crawly #1: 26 DMG, table 14 DMG - unless you feel a critter underneath the table might get some of that damage, creepy crawly #2: 27 DMG.
Gareth Monday November 22nd, 1999 7:14:59 PM
curses as he sees Kibo getting in the way - too late to retract his blow to the table. His thoughts reveal a great frustration - "Doesn't he realize the daughter should be his objective? I can handle these two things!". The angry warrior says nothing but moves to put himself between the daughter and the danger - if there's room. If not he will attempt to draw any attack to himself and parry any attack directed at her next turn. (OOC: sorry for the multiple entries. It's really only one)
Saire d20=10 3d20(5+18+14)=37 Monday November 22nd, 1999 9:19:59 PM
Saire, pausing in the darkness of the stairs, is bumped aside by the flying body that is crashing lifelessly down the stairs. (Saire makes a dex check 10/17 to avoid being toppled by the body.) Saire, hearing the screams from above and the combat and bellowing from below, decides he does not have time to be careful descending the stairs. So he dashes blindly down the invisible stairs. (Saire passes his first dex check 5/17 but fails his second dex check 18/17 and his foot does not find the next step. Saire begins falling forward, leaving his feet behind. He stretches out his arms to catch his crashing blow upon the jagged stair steps below. He makes his third Dex check, hoping to lessen the damage as he smashes to the ground and begins falling down the stair well due to gravity.) CURRENT STATUS: out of control, but very invisible.
Bishop d20=2 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 12:17:59 AM
Bishops scythe leaps out at the nearest creepy crawly, and misses. He curses to himself and places his back to one of the nearest party members.
Jus d20=12 d20=10 d20=9 d20=12 d20=12 d20=18 d6+3=6 d6+3=5 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 12:59:59 AM
seeing that the sister appears to be safe with Gareth and Kibo defending, the elf races up the stairs as fast as he can (full run several stairs at a time) to aid the Matron, preparing to fire his long bow as soon as he sees what is happening. (4 Dex checks made by plenty). If within his movement rate (don't know), then the fair figured elven warrior fires two arrows at the green glob nearest the Matron.
Teko d20=12 d6+3=8 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 2:48:59 AM
The sound of a growling dog comes from the dagger in Teko's hand. He slashes out at the blob in the booth (the one Kibo attacked) with his Longtooth dagger. He strikes the foul thing for 8 points of damage.
Tericus d20+1=21 d20+1=7 d6+1=5 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 3:06:59 AM
"What are they?!?" Tericus screams as he swings back at the blob attacking his rear, hitting critically for 7pts of damage and hitting ac 8 for 5pts of damage. the he moves to the nearest party member for support
Bar Battle -- Part I (DM Dave) d6=4 d20=14 d20=3 d20=4 d20=7 d20=16 d12=8 d20=11 d20=9 d20=9 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 4:31:59 AM
As the form of the bartender shifts and flies past Gareth, the mighty warrior’s sword cleaves it in two, ending it with a SPLAT just short of the alcove table. Another flash as the blade lands across the tabletop, shattering wood just as Kibo ducks under to engage the creature known as Akordia. Kibo goes sprawling, taking 4 hps of dmg from the concussion of the blow, and driving Teko back, preventing either halfling from engaging the enemy. Gareth’s final blow smashes Akordia into several wet pieces, leaving Irae (the other Drow) looking a mess. Meanwhile, Jus makes a dash out of the alcove and towards the spiral stairs, but is stymied by the fierce battle occurring across the center of the room: Nonam, manages to torch one of the ‘men’ who emerged from behind the bar, slicing off a part of his form (saved for half damage), but it keeps coming, lashing out at Nonam with a pseudopodia, which Nonam easily sidesteps. Onrad’s deadly dance of steel rains down on his attacker for 15 hps of dmg, but it continues its assault with a sweep that would have sent the Dexterous One sprawling, if the monster's intent had not been so obviously telegraphed. Meanwhile, Bishop and Tericus have drawn up back to back, and are hard pressed to keep off 5 more of the enemy. Tericus’ blow, although it lands true, is not enough to fell the strange creature – two of the enemy attack Tericus, one of which smashes into his right thigh for 8 points of damage.
Bar Battle -- Part II (DM Dave) d8=7 d8=7 d6=5 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 4:37:59 AM
The other three attack Bishop, but are unable to penetrate his formidable defenses. With all of this going on, Jus is unable to advance past the fray. To expedite the quickest passage, the elf manages to fell the creature attacking the Mage, using some quick bow work, and ripping it to shreds with 14 points of dmg. That done, Jus manages to sprint towards the spiral stairs, before being brought up short by the loud thuds and groans from an invisible Saire choosing that moment to land at the bottom of the stairs (who takes 5 points from the fall).
Nonam 5d4(4+4+3+1+4)+5=21 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 4:44:59 PM
Nonam casts a magic missile. 2 bolts explode into the thing in front of him (10pts). The other three race in a fiery streak toward the least injured blog around Bishop and Tericus (11pts).
Saire d20=7 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 9:14:59 PM
(OOC: How does Jus know that the matron is up above the well?) Saire comes to a rolling stop and feels the pain pulsing through his forearms that are now bruised and bleeding. He manages to scream at Jus, who stands above him preparing to take the stairs, "Don't go up, there are many drow fighting. The way is closed!" Saire sees Tericus just after he is wounded by the strange creature. Seeing that Tericus is outnumbered. Saire grabs his s. sword and sprints to attack the assailing creature from behind(the one that hit Tericus). Saire misses 7/9 and becomes visible.
Jus d20=13 d20=11 d6+3=7 d6+3=7 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 10:30:59 PM
(OOC: To Saire - Spider sign on the wall, followed by real sister saying she was here, followed by sounds of fighting up above). Seeing the melee ensue around bishop and Tericus, and hearing Saire's warning, Jus decides to fire two arrows at the most injured blob around Bishop as he is the most outnumbered - preserving his precious magic. The elven bowyer's arrows fly true as they hit the interloper squarely (7+7=14DMG, Note: arrows will go to separate creatures if the first kills). He listens to the raging battle up above and tries to determine if it goes well for the matron. He decides it better to support his comrades for now.
Gareth d20=18 d20=7 d8+10=16 d8+10=16 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 11:12:59 PM
grunts out a "Sorry for the mess." to the daughter. As the warrior moves to engage the blobs around Bishop and Tericus he calls back to Kibo and Teko "Protect the daughter! She must survive this!". With a flair known only to those of great skill in the art of swordplay he presses his irresistible assault on two of the blobs in the vicinity of Bishop and Tericus striking the most injured looking one first (16+16 DMG). As he cleaves at the enemy he muses to himself "We are going to have to work on our tactics. That was too sloppy - and Kibo was injured. Not acceptable...".
Teko d20=18 d6+3=8 Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 11:31:59 PM
Teko strikes at the nearest available blob, doing 8 points of damage. (Hopefully.)
Kibo Tuesday November 23rd, 1999 11:49:59 PM
Looking over at Teko while brushing the wood splinters off his vest, Kibo snarls, "That's why I always take the scouting positions...I just love getting caught in friendly-fire." He turns to the drow-lady and says (in a more restrained voice), "Is there anything I may help with?" He then turns to assume a guarding stance near the entrance to the alcove.
Tericus d20+1=11 d6+1=5 Wednesday November 24th, 1999 1:58:59 AM
thankful for the help, Tericus attacks the blob he hit earlier, hitting AC4 for 5pts of dm(if that one is already slain, he will strike the nearest one).
End of Round 2: Character Results (DM Jerry) Thursday November 25th, 1999 2:19:59 AM
Nonam's missiles hit their targets. The first two strike #9, the one in front of Nonam, which Jus had just killed. The other three hit #2. Saire misses and becomes visible. The way to Tericus is mostly blocked so Saire ends up near, but not closed with #4. Jus hits #4 with his arrows. Gareth hits #2 and he dies becoming more liquid on the ground. Teko must move to attack the nearest blob since none are near his location in the booth. He attacks #5 for the 8 points mentioned. Kibo guards the entrance to the booth of darkness. Tericus hits "blob" #5 as well. The goo of dead and injured opponents are everywhere and on everyone. Everyone needs to begin making dex checks when fighting in the well trafficked areas or they slip and fall losing their action for the round.
Round 3: Opponent's Attack Part 1 (DM Jerry) d20=9 d20=17 d20=14 d20=7 d12=2 Thursday November 25th, 1999 3:15:59 AM
Kibo notices 6 more figures looking like drow stepping out from behind darkness curtains across the bar on the other side from the combat. They immediately begin to flow and change form. An alien sounding voice screams, "CRAGE!" and pulls out a pouch. Doppelganger #6, pulls out a pouch as well. Then screaming bloody rage, both the doppelgangers holding pouches fan their pouch in the air releasing dust that flies everywhere. Suddenly, the blobs begin moving faster and begin bulging in strange places. They make awful screeching noises, like an ape on speed, as the drug takes effect. (New AC of the Doppelgangers is 0.) The effect upon you is that you begin to cough (Con check at -1 or you reduced to choking and coughing for 2 or 1 rounds. Make an even/odd roll if you fail the con check with even meaning 2 rounds of inactivity and odd equaling 1.) Meanwhile the doppelgangers attack with renewed fury, speed, and power. #3 and #4 attack Bishop, twice each rolling 9, 17, 14, and 7 hitting the mighty Bishop once for (2+8 for strength) 10 points of damage. (to be continued)
Round 3: Opponent's Attack Part 2 (DM Jerry) d20=10 d20=4 d12=2 d20=15 d20=2 d12=8 Thursday November 25th, 1999 3:47:59 AM
The doppelgangers continue to attack. Blob +5 attacks Teko twice hitting once with a 9 for 10 points of damage. Blob +6 bristles with pseudopods two of which strike at Tericus one hitting with a 15 for 16 points of damage. (To be continued on next post)
Round 3: Opponent's Attack Part 3 (DM Jerry) d20=17 d20=4 d20=3 d20=2 d12=2 Thursday November 25th, 1999 3:56:59 AM
Blobs 11 and 12 move with amazing speed to Kibo and attack him twice each and hitting once for 10 points of damage. (To be continued.)
Round 3: Opponent's Attack Part 4 (DM Jerry) d20=12 d20=13 d20=11 d20=19 d12=4 d12=2 d12=5 Thursday November 25th, 1999 4:20:59 AM
Blobs 13 and 14 move with their brothers and each attacks Jus twice with bludgeoning pseudopods hitting 3 times for 12 + 10 + 13 = 35 points of damage. Blobs 15 and 16 move part way across the room, but stop across the table from Saire. "Come. Your Death awaits yourrrraaaaarrrghhHahaHAAAA" (finally done) [It is now The Three's turn to attack.]
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